Gen Z’s fall travel shift
Fall has long been a favorite season for travel, but Generation Z is bringing its own unique approach to experiencing this time of year. Rather than sticking to traditional leaf-peeping or crowded festivals, young travelers are seeking out quieter destinations that offer both relaxation and authentic connections with local communities.
This shift is inspiring a more mindful style of travel, where the journey is just as important as the destination itself.
Cozy corners in Vermont
Vermont remains a classic fall destination, but Gen Z travelers are putting a modern spin on it. Instead of busy resort towns, they are drawn to small villages like Stowe and Woodstock, where charming cafes and independent bookshops add character to the landscape.
They pair leaf-viewing with immersive activities such as cider tastings on family-run farms and hikes along hidden trails, finding joy in simple seasonal pleasures.
A new side of Kyoto
Kyoto in autumn is celebrated for its fiery maple leaves, yet younger travelers are finding ways to enjoy the city beyond temples and gardens. They are exploring Kyoto’s creative quarters, where artisan studios and vintage markets bring a modern energy to traditional surroundings.
This blending of old and new appeals to Gen Z’s curiosity, allowing them to experience Japan’s cultural depth in spaces that feel both historic and contemporary.
Iceland’s northern glow
Iceland’s dramatic landscapes have become a favorite for fall getaways, especially with the chance to catch the Northern Lights before winter’s deep freeze. Gen Z travelers are embracing road trips along the Ring Road, stopping at geothermal lagoons and lesser-known waterfalls en route.
The country’s strong sustainability efforts also align with its values, making Iceland a top pick for those who want an adventure that is breathtaking yet mindful of the environment.
Soulful evenings in Lisbon
Portugal’s capital has become a rising favorite for fall travel, with its mild weather and vibrant street culture. Gen Z visitors are skipping the tourist-heavy trams in favor of sunset walks along the waterfront and evenings listening to Fado in intimate taverns.
They are discovering that Lisbon offers more than postcard views, as local art collectives and creative food markets showcase the city’s modern side while still honoring tradition.
Hidden magic in Slovenia
Nestled between Italy and Austria, Slovenia is quickly becoming a go-to destination for adventurous fall travelers. Lake Bled is well known, but Gen Z is exploring beyond the iconic views, venturing into the Julian Alps and Soča Valley for hiking and kayaking.
This mix of natural beauty and affordability appeals to younger visitors who want an alternative to crowded European hotspots, offering both peace and excitement in equal measure.
The allure of Mexico City
Mexico City in autumn buzzes with creative energy, making it a perfect match for Gen Z explorers. Beyond the famous murals and museums, they are diving into trendy neighborhoods like Roma and Condesa, where coffee shops, street art, and indie boutiques tell the story of a youthful urban culture.
Fall festivals bring the city to life, offering a chance to connect with local traditions while enjoying a modern and multicultural vibe.
Wild coast of Oregon
The Oregon Coast is not the typical fall escape, which makes it all the more appealing to Gen Z travelers. Its rugged cliffs, misty beaches, and small seaside towns provide an atmospheric setting for road trips.
Young visitors are trading in city nightlife for evenings around a campfire, listening to waves crash against the shore while discovering a slower, more reflective way to enjoy the season.
Krakow’s autumn charm
Poland’s historic city of Kraków has found new life as a fall destination for Gen Z travelers seeking affordable yet rich cultural experiences. Beyond the medieval squares and castles, they are engaging with the city’s thriving café scene and underground music venues.
As the air cools, outdoor markets glow with local crafts and seasonal foods, giving younger visitors a taste of tradition wrapped in a modern, accessible package.
A different Tuscany
Tuscany has long been associated with wine tours and rolling hills, but younger travelers are carving out fresh ways to explore the region. In the fall, olive harvests and truffle hunts provide immersive experiences that go beyond typical sightseeing.
Charming agriturismos are drawing in Gen Z with their blend of rustic hospitality and sustainability, allowing them to feel like participants in local life rather than spectators.
Montreal’s creative beat
As leaves change color, Montreal transforms into a lively blend of culture and creativity that resonates with Gen Z. The city’s bilingual flair gives it a cosmopolitan edge, while fall festivals celebrate everything from film to street art.
Younger travelers are also embracing its café culture, cozying up with maple-flavored treats and enjoying the easy balance of European charm and North American energy.
Untamed Scotland
Scotland’s wild landscapes make it a standout fall destination, especially for younger travelers looking to escape the usual European crowds. From the Highlands to the Isle of Skye, Gen Z adventurers are embracing road trips filled with castle ruins, misty lochs, and dramatic coastlines.
The rugged scenery combined with a strong sense of folklore taps into their desire for experiences that feel raw, meaningful, and deeply connected to history.
Buenos Aires in Bloom
While much of the Northern Hemisphere is entering cooler weather, Argentina is stepping into spring, giving Gen Z travelers a fresh seasonal twist. Buenos Aires comes alive with blooming jacaranda trees, vibrant street art, and energetic tango performances.
This seasonal flip makes the city appealing to those who want something unexpected, blending cultural richness with the warmth of spring during a time when most are bundling up.
Seoul’s colorful shift
Seoul in the fall bursts with color as city parks and palace grounds are painted in shades of red and gold. Gen Z travelers are drawn to the mix of tradition and modern life, from exploring centuries-old palaces to joining K-pop themed tours.
Seasonal street foods like roasted chestnuts and sweet pancakes add comfort to the urban buzz, making the city both exciting and welcoming during this season of change.
Offbeat corners in Morocco
Marrakech often takes the spotlight, but Gen Z travelers are venturing further to places like Chefchaouen and Essaouira during the fall. These towns offer vibrant colors, seaside breezes, and a calmer pace compared to larger cities.
Exploring souks, trying local street food, and joining surf lessons on Morocco’s Atlantic coast provide a sense of discovery that appeals to their love for unique, memorable experiences. If Morocco feels like a refreshing escape, you’ll love this guide to the 17 hottest destinations for digital detox in 2025.
Autumn nights in Prague
Prague’s cobblestone streets and Gothic architecture create a striking backdrop for fall travel, and Gen Z is embracing the city in fresh ways. Beyond the famous Charles Bridge, younger visitors are drawn to hidden courtyards, quirky cafes, and local music venues that give the city a youthful pulse.
As evenings grow cooler, the glow of lantern-lit markets and seasonal Czech dishes creates a cozy atmosphere, making Prague a perfect finale for autumn adventures.
Gen Z is already mapping out their next adventures. See where Tiktok travelers are going in 2025 (and why).
Which of these fall destinations would you add to your travel list this year?
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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.
